Accrington’s new town centre police station front counter could be at risk of closure – just months after a £500,000 move.

Lancashire’s Police and Crime Commissioner has confirmed that all county front counters, including Accrington and Great Harwood, are being reviewed as part of plans to make a further £18 million in cuts by 2020.

Bosses say no decision has been made but a ‘proposal will be developed for public consultation’.

If the public-facing counters on Broadway, Accrington and Great Harwood were to close, residents would then have to travel to the nearest front counter in Whitebirk to speak face to face to officers or present documents.

Great Harwood Police Station on Hesketh Street

The Observer has reported in recent weeks how residents and businesses are becoming increasingly concerned over a rise in burglaries, shoplifting and gun crime.

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Police chiefs insist any buildings affected would stay open as ‘stations’, as officers would still use them as a base even if the public counter is shut.

Accrington’s new town centre front counter opened in September 2016, making it more accessible to residents, and councillor Tony Dobson has warned there would be a ‘major outcry’ if it closes.

Hyndburn Conservative group leader councillor Tony Dobson

He said: “Wherever possible, front facing customer service should be maintained and enhanced like officers on the ground and the ability to contact police as and when needed.”

Rachel Baines, Lancashire branch chair of the Police Federation, said the force has lost more than 900 police officers and 500 staff in recent years and further budget cuts mean the ‘closure of front counters, less police officers and less visibility’.